These best bars in Daejeon make up a portion of the nightlife scene of the 5th-largest metropolis in South Korea. While not as big and lively as its counterparts in Seoul, such as Gangnam or Itaewon, Daejeon’s bar scene is nevertheless eclectic.

The city boasts a wide variety of bars that cater to all sorts of clientele – whether you want to drink in a more refined atmosphere and sip on carefully crafted cocktails or join in on the action with an animated crowd. Here are our top picks for bars in Daejeon to help you pick the stage for your next after-hour or weekend adventure in the city.

  • 1

    Thursday Party

    Popular drinking and partying spot in Daejeon

     Thursday Party
    • Couples
    • Food
    • Nightlife

    Thursday Party is a popular bar in Daejeon that regularly draws a jovial crowd of locals and foreigners with its lively atmosphere. You and your friends will be spoilt for choice as the drinks menu offers a wide variety of imported alcoholic beverages to keep everyone fueled and refreshed through the night.

    Regulars to Thursday Party habitually order chicken wings with their premium Hendrick’s Gin or Tito’s American Mule. Korea’s own Jinro soju is also a must-try tipple. With its well-mixed crowd, Thursday Party is a great choice for when you’re looking to make new friends or share tales of adventure in South Korea while enjoying the lively vibe.

    Location: 1100, Dunsan-dong, Seo-gu, Daejeon, South Korea

    Open: Daily from7 pm to 4 am

    Phone: +82 (0)42-483-6621

    Map
  • 2

    Adonis

    For a refined atmosphere and great cocktails

    Adonis
    • Group
    • Luxury
    • Nightlife

    Adonis is one of the best bars in Daejeon with a more refined vibe and with exquisite cocktails to accompany you through the night. The bar’s whole interior features wooden furnishings and subtle lighting augments the tasteful maroon hues. The result is a setting that’s suitable for a more mature and calm crowd.

    Aside from the cocktails, Adonis’ collections of spirits and liquors are also extensive. If you’re unsure what drink to go for, just let the bartender know your preferences and he’ll hook you up with something that will fit your taste. In any case, try the Bohemian Rhapsody or the martini grapefruit cocktail, among the truly refreshing picks from Adonis’ extensive drinks menu.

    Location: 3rd floor, 24, Jungang-ro 130beon-gil, Jung-gu, Daejeon, South Korea

    Open: Monday–Friday from 5 pm to midnight, Saturday from 4 pm to 1 am, Sunday from 4 pm to midnight

    Phone: +82 (0)42-257-8123

    Map
  • 3

    The Ranch Pub

    A classic beer store and pub in Daejeon

    The Ranch Pub
    • Food
    • Group
    • Nightlife

    The Ranch Pub is a popular pub and beer store in Daejeon that’s well-known for its extensive selection of beers. In its collection are seasonal craft beers – each visit to The Ranch Pub is a vastly different experience. The Ranch Pub also serves up classic pub bites – quesadilla, pizza, and pulled pork sandwiches are among the many choices to order with your beer.

    Upon stepping into The Ranch Pub, you’ll be greeted with a chill vibe with some music playing in the background that goes with the overall cosy, coffee shop-like ambience. If you’re looking for a place to leisurely sip on some beers with friends or to meet friendly Daejeon locals, this is the place to go.

    Location: 88 Gungdong-ro 18beon-gil, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, South Korea

    Open: Tuesday–Saturday from 6 to 10 pm (closed on Sundays)

    Phone: +82 (0)42-825-4157

    Map
  • 4

    Santa Claus

    A quirky but warm and friendly bar in Daejeon

    Santa Claus
    • Food
    • Group
    • Nightlife

    Santa Claus is a quirky bar in Daejeon that despite its name, isn’t a place adorned in Christmas decorations. Dressed in classic American bar decor with wooden furniture, warm lights, and vinyl records on the wall, Santa Claus draws in regular patrons from all sorts of backgrounds. Santa Claus welcomes all, from homesick expatriates to local Koreans who want to practice their English while having a blast.

    Live bands regularly fill the air with classic rock and the latest pop, while smaller groups cheer on at the pool tables and table football. When you’re feeling peckish, go for Santa Claus’ signature fajitas. Their burgers are also popular, with some noting them being among the best in Daejeon. Keep an eye out for Santa Claus’ so-called scheduled ‘Wing Night’ events, for knockout beer-and-wings deals and revelry.

    Location: 25 Nongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, South Korea

    Open: Tuesday–Saturday from 7 pm to 3 am (closed on Sundays and Mondays)

    Phone: +82 (0)42-825-5500

    Map
  • 5

    Do Taps

    Some of the best selections of craft beers in Daejeon

    Do Taps
    • Food
    • Group
    • Nightlife

    Do Taps is a Daejeon bar that offers a rich selection of craft beers and an exciting selection of bites. Their beer menu is set distinctively from the food menu due to the vast selections. The neon lights, brick walls, and wooden furniture create a cheerful and homey vibe.

    The craft beers served at Do Taps include both local Korean and international varieties, giving you the chance to taste all sorts of brews in one visit. Must-tries to accompany your drinks include cream cheese pork cutlet, gambas, garlic baguette, and classic wings.

    Location: 37-14 Jungang-ro 130beon-gil, Daeheung-dong, Jung-gu, Daejeon, South Korea

    Open: Monday–Saturday from 5 pm to midnight (closed on Sundays)

    Phone: +82 42-253-7004

    Map
Amy Vivian-Neal | Compulsive Traveller